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KIM PIDDINGTON, MISSOURI REGIONAL ADVISOR Kim Piddington, a former educator of middle grade children, currently serves as the Co-Director for Youth Programs at the Ozark Writing Project and is on the board for The Missouri Center of the Book. Her novel Momma Don’t Own a Machine Gun won first place in the Pike’s Peak Writer’s Fiction Contest, Children’s Category. She is a member of ALAN and several local writing groups and is represented by Lori KilKelly at Rodeen Literary Management. kimpiddington.com.

MOScr ibblesNewsletter for Missouri and Arkansas scbwi regions

Fall 2016 Issue

First of all, I hope that we can all agree that it’s an absolute necessity to obtain quality editorial assistance in some form (critique groups, beta readers, paid critiques and/or editorial services) before offering your work to the wider public. No exceptions.But now—let’s be honest. Whether we bring pages to a critique group, pay for a written critique with an agent, enter an illustration in a contest, send a postcard to an art director, or attend a writing retreat with an editor and submit work, we are hoping for some praise or positive reinforcement.Not just some. We secretly want them to love it. We want them to request more material. We want to hear, “You’ve got it right. No more revisions needed.”And on rare occasions—that is exactly what happens. We beam, get giddy, pop the champagne.But, more often than not, we get back anything from a paragraph to several pages of “suggestions” on how to make our creative work “better.” What do you do with those suggestions?First, consider the source. Is the person, or persons, giving the feedback qualified to do so? To quote Will Sullivan, the author of Six Tips for Distilling Feedback, “Did you send your piece to writers or editors? If so, do they write the same subject matter, genre or length you do? Or, did you send it to a good friend or colleague who likes to read but doesn’t do it critically?” The answer to that question may inform how seriously you

take the suggestions.IF, the feedback is from a reliable source, I strongly suggest you give yourself at least 24 hours—sometimes you may need as long a whole week—to really mull it over. Go ahead and have that hissy fit. Lament the fact that no one understands your creative genesis. Eat some chocolate or drink some wine. Or both.Then get objective.Sullivan suggests, “If you receive less than adoring feedback, or your manuscript requires more work than you’d hoped, take a moment and write down the facts of your critique feedback.”This will help you create an action plan. I had to use this strategy recently when an editor critiqued a first chapter which had already been completely rewritten by the time I sat down to discuss it with her.Even though many of the lines-and even an entire character had been axed from the chapter the editor read—I took the time to highlight what was bothering that particular editor about the old version. And guess what? Some of her remarks still held true for the rewritten material. I tweaked here, reworded there, and ended up with an even stronger first chapter.No matter what: do NOT argue about the criticism and resist the urge to explain. It’s just not necessary.Why?Because you are the boss of your own story. As the author, you have the power to accept or reject feedback.Happy writing and revising.

IN THIS ISSUE:

Message from the RA 1

Missouri Member News 2

Picture Books = Poetry = Picture Booksby Peggy Archer, PALC 2-3

The Hinges of SCBWIBy Shannon Moore, ARA 4

What’s In a Book Series?By Nicki Jacobsmeyer 4

Surround Yourself with Creativesby Andi Osiek, IC 5

The Market Placeby Rita Russell 6-11

KIM’S COMMENTS

How to Accept Criticism (Or Not)BY: KIM PIDDINGTON

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MEMBER NEWS:Peggy Archer’s board books, Find It At the Construction Site and Find It at Bedtime, have been released by Highlights Press (August/September 2016). Her story, Double Exposure, will be included in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Angels & Miracles, release date November 1, 2016. Mike Cook submitted his short story ‘Just Another Old Man’ to the Southeast Missouri University Press Contest. While it didn’t win first prize, it was accepted for publication in their anthology, due out in November 2016.

Shelley Dieterichs has illustrated two new author-published books. Being Grace: A Story for Children about Scoliosis and When Grammy Comes to Play. Being Grace is available on Amazon.com.

Sue Bradford Edwards has two new books out. Women in Science and Women in Sports came out in September and are part of Abdo Publishing’s Women’s Lives in History series.

Alastair Heim’s first picture book, Love You, Too (Little Bee Books) will be released on December 6th of this year. The story was illustrated by Alisa Coburn and features two pigs, a dad and his daughter, finishing each other’s sentences as they move throughout their day.

Reedy Press of St. Louis recently released Valerie Battle Kienzle’s latest book, What’s With St. Louis? The book provides a glimpse at life in this unique Midwestern city—from food, weather, and sports to treasured architectural jewels and quirky St. Louis-isms. Think you know everything about this city with the gigantic arch? What’s With St. Louis? tells the rest of the story.

PAL Critique across Missouri

On September 24, 2016, Missouri SCBWI spon-sored a day for PAL critique groups to meet. Above is a photo of the St. Louis area meeting with Peggy Archer, Sue Bradford Edwards and Stephanie Mowry Bearce.

Dorinda Nicholson has an October release of a story about how Mexico helped the U.S. in World War II. “The School the Aztec Eagles Built, A Tribute to Mexico’s World War II Air Fighters” is published by Lee & Low.

Cynthia Reeg’s middle grade fantasy, From The Grave, debuts on October 18 from Jolly Fish Press.

Holly Schindler’s first illustrated short book for “kinda-sorta” readers, Wordquake, is now available in paperback at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Teacher Created Materials published Jody Jensen Shaffer’s picture book biography, Benjamin Banneker: Self-Made Man, in August 2016.Nancy Lewis Shelton submitted a piece about her work with a homeless boy to Guideposts’ Writing Workshop contest. In August, she was invited to attend this year’s event which includes an all-expense paid trip to Rye, New York. Imagine getting to workshop with the Guidepost editors for a week!

Picture Books = Poetry = Picture Books BY PEGGY ARCHER, PAL COORDINATOR

When I decided to give writing children’s poetry a try I listened to the experts. I read a lot about writing poetry. And I read a lot of poetry for children. I continued to write picture books as I tried my hand at writing my own poems. And the more I did, the more I came to believe that all picture books are poetry. At the end of August I went to the Picture Book Workshop with Tammi Sauer in Overland Park, Kansas. Number six of her “Ten Tips for Writing a Picture Book” was—“Use words that sing.” “Use specific nouns, vivid verbs, and tight writing,” she told us. “He walked” or “He strutted?” Which one puts a more vivid image in your mind? But, wait, isn’t that what we do when we write poetry?

Tammi gave us a list of ‘Love Notes,’ which included poetic devices and figurative language. She challenged us to find places in our own manuscripts where we used poetic language. But she wasn’t talking about writing poetry—she was talking about writing a picture book!

Tammi Sauer (with Stephanie Bearce)

cont’d on pg.3

The Picture Book Summit team recently shared an article about Matt de La Peña, whose picture book Last Stop on Market Street won the 2016 Newberry award. The team gave three reasons why ‘Matt is a picture book rockstar’—all of which are poetic techniques. They were poetic language, sensory words, and personification. You can read the article for more on

how Matt’s use of poetry set this book apart at http://picturebooksummit.com/author-study-matt-de-la-pena/. In September I heard Cheryl Klein, author and editor, speak at Left Bank Books in St. Louis. She talked about “Five Steps to Writing a Novel.” I found that much of what she said could also apply to writing a picture book. Then she said something that really caught my attention. “How language sounds, can have as much effect as what you say with the words.” And— “The rhythm, vocabulary, and elements of sound in your language match what the story is about.”

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Picture Books = Poetry = Picture Books cont’d from pg. 2

Don’t forget to check out our fea-tured author of the month on the

Missouri SCBWI website at missouri.scbwi.org!

PEGGY ARCHER, PAL COORDINATOR Peggy Archer’s most recent picture book, Name That Dog! (Dial), is on the Accelerated Reader list, and is listed with Scholastic Book Club. Her picture book, Turkey Surprise, was a NY Times bestseller. Originally from northwest Indi-ana, Peggy and her husband now live in O’Fallon, MO. peggyarcher.com

Peggy’s SCBWI critique group from St. Charles pictures with Tammi Sauer (front center) –Picture Book Workshop August 27th)

That sounds like poetry to me. When we write poetry the language we use helps to create an emotional experience for the reader. We use specific nouns and vivid verbs in a rhythm that is designed to help the reader feel something. And isn’t that what we do when we write a picture book? We want the reader to connect to our main character, and feel for him. “Every word counts” when writing a picture book. Oh, wait! Maybe I meant …when writing poetry? Or maybe it’s both…

Reading Rockets’ children’s literature expert, Maria Salvadore, blogs about ways to use children’s books inside and outside of the classroom. Her post on July 6, 2015 talked about picture books and poetry. She said—“…it seems to me that picture books that delight readers of all ages are those that combine elements of poetry and movement when word and image combine to create the picture book.” So if you find that your picture book text lacks that connection with the reader, try putting a little poetry in your picture book!

Cheryl Klein at Left Bank Books STL(with author Nicki Jacobsmeyer)

Local SCBWI members with Cheryl Klein (front center) at Left Bank Books, September 21st

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What’s In a Book Series?BY NICKI JACOBSMEYER

The attraction of a book series begins with the recognizable cover and title. It draws readers in with an unspoken promise. Inside lies the familiar environment we want to submerge ourselves in once again. Excitement grows with each page turn as we live with the characters we have grown to know and love. We feel their struggles, uncertainties, and triumphs. Series can be written by a solo author or multiple authors. Many popular children series are written by more than one author. For instance, American Girls, Spirit Animals, and 39 Clues to name a few. Currently, I’m writing a middle grade book for the You Choose series with Capstone Publishing. My title, Can You Survive the Iditarod?, will be one of four on extreme sports that is scheduled to be out Fall 2017. In this interactive survival adventure the reader stars as the main character and chooses one of three story paths. With more than 35 choices and 15 endings, the book can be read over and over with the reader experiencing new adventures each time.Writing any book requires some prep work, especially non-fiction. Capstone’s non-fiction submission requirements included a resume, cover letter, and up to three writing samples. I submitted a short story I had written and decided to write the first and second chapters for the Iditarod idea. I wanted Capstone to know I had done my homework. To begin, I researched many primary and secondary sources. It’s important to be authentic and accurate. Secondly, I read many books in their You Choose series. I wanted to get a feel for the voice and

NICKI JACOBSMEYER Nicki Jacobsmeyer writes fiction and non-fiction for children and adults. Her historical non-fiction book, Images Of America, Chesterfield hits shelves this December with Arcadia Publishing as well as three historical short stories and a poem forthcoming in an anthology. Nicki is currently writing a middle grade

interactive survival adventure about the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race for the You Choose series with Capstone. Besides reading and writing she loves to knit, plan events, and go hiking and camping with her husband and two boys.

As some of you may know, I am stepping down as Assistant Regional Advisor for the Missouri SCBWI chapter. Given my current work and family responsibilities, I just can’t give SCBWI all the time and attention it deserves.There’s a saying, “Big doors open on small hinges.” The “hinges” of SCBWI have opened many doors for me. For instance, I met Kim Piddington, current MO Regional Advisor, at a Kansas SCBWI conference. We both happened to sign up for the same historical fiction critique group. After striking up a conversation after the session, we continued sharing tips via email. A year later, we again met at a conference—once again by chance. Ultimately, this relationship led to working with Kim as assistant regional advisor—an opportunity that has given me the chance to attend multiple conference and retreats—including the SCBWI conference in New York. As an SCBWI member, don’t underestimate the power of “small hinges.” Talk to the person sitting next to you at a conference. Introduce yourself to the agent who just made a fabulous presentation. Sign up to participate in a Pitch War (check out www.brenda-drake.com). Above all, don’t let fear and timidity stand in your way.

The Hinges of SCBWIBY SHANNON MOORE

SHANNON BAKER MOORE Shannon Moore, current Assistant RA for MO SCBWI, joined SCBWI in 2008 and loves it! A writer of both fiction & non-fiction, Shannon has been published in Highlights and has written two non-fiction books (Korean War, King Tut’s Tomb) for ABDO, an educational publisher for libraries and schools. Shannon also teaches writing at UMSL and works as a writing coach for the Brookings Institu-tion’s Executive Education program.

In the business book Do Over, author Jon Acuff mentions four essentials you need to help move from one career to another—relationships, skills, character, and hustle. His chapter about the power of relationships really resonated with me because I know that the relationships I’ve developed through SCBWI have made me a better writer and are the reason I am published today. I can’t thank SCBWI enough. Happy writing and see you soon at another conference!

structure. Then, my sample chapters went through my SCBWI critique group a few times. I mirrored the series page numbers, chapter word counts, and phrasing in my proposal. Is that overboard? Not in my opinion. I knew I had one shot to pitch this title and I’m a “go big or go home” kind of girl. Thankfully, they agreed. There have been many challenges writing for a multi-author series. I need to have a consistent voice, maintain the same structure, and include action-packed scenes. I keep a few books in the series nearby for reference when I write. The beauty is I still get to let my creative juices flow and into my writing. The reader should finish the book with the same rush of adrenaline and satisfaction as the other books in the series.

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ILLUSTRATOR’S CORNER

ANDI OSIEK, ILLUSTRATORS’ COORDINATOR Andi Osiek is a freelance designer and illustrator who finds great joy in creat-ing characters that make people smile. In her spare time Andi enjoys reading, ballroom dancing and building “pillow houses” with her kids. She lives in Webb City, MO with her husband, two children and their fiesty yorkie. andiosiek.com

Several weeks ago, I attended Tammi Sauer’s Picture Book Writing workshop (organized by our amazing friends at Kansas SCBWI). Those few hours left me with a major breakthrough in my manuscript, a new online critique group and more creative “juice” than I have had in months. This event was just one more reminder of how important it is to surround myself with other creative people. Creativity multiplies. Every interaction I have with someone who is passionate about children’s literature becomes fuel for my own imagination. These individuals are also great critics – forcing me to edit more and continually push the boundaries of my work. If you want to be successful, surround yourself with people who challenge you. Just don’t forget to enjoy the process!

Go to Battle!We all enjoy compliments and praise. However, admiration will rarely raise your work to the next level. If you want to be challenged, consider your own weaknesses and seek out individuals who can push you in those areas. For example, I always enjoy “talking shop” with illustrators whose work is particularly spontaneous or filled with humor. If given the opportunity to share my own work they often give great advice on how to develop those characteristics in my own style as well.

Get out of the houseI recently gained an art studio after spending years working at my kitchen table. However, I still make an effort to work outside my house anytime I can. New environments can bring fresh creativity. They can also provide a great location to meet other creative people. As freelancers, we don’t have built in office-mates so we have to go out and create those relationships on our own. I have made several great friends while sketching in coffee shops or perusing galleries. Your creative network will also get a huge boost by attending classes at a local gallery or college. What could be better than making friends while learning a new technique or skill?

Stay HomeNever forget to recognize the creative people in your own home. While they may not be working on their next big picture book, family members can be a huge source of inspiration for your work. Children and their antics are obviously amazing guinea pigs and story starters. However, other relatives – aunts, pets, grandparents, or siblings -- may offer unique insights to improve your work.

Surround Yourself with CreativesBY ANDI OSIEK

Get regular checkups To stay engaged with other creative people, it can be helpful to have regular checkups. Critique groups with scheduled deadlines or meetings can provide you with both accountability and a cheering squad to celebrate your achievements. You will find you gain even more by encouraging the progress of your team members. If meeting in-person is difficult, online critique groups can be just as beneficial and new technologies like Facebook or Google Docs make those relationships simple to manage.

Attend events As an SCBWI member, you have regular access to workshops and conferences with some of the most successful creatives in our industry! One of the best perks that is part of your membership is the ability to learn from these amazing guest speakers. However, these events also offer a great opportunity to develop lasting relationships with other attendees.

… or Host Your Own!If all else fails, host your own party! One of my favorite creative gatherings was a group painting session in a fellow illustrator’s studio. However, it doesn’t have to be that complicated. I have never known an SCBWI illustrator (or author) who doesn’t enjoy a good book signing, cupcake, or dinner with friends. I am always seeking out opportunities to meet up with those in my creative circle. Sometimes a cup of coffee and a bit of laughter is all the fuel I need to tackle that challenging book dummy I’m working on. It definitely makes it more fun.(Psssst… Kansas is currently accepting registrations for their conference in November. I hope to see you there!)

FALL 2016

TRADITIONAL BOOK MARKETSLIZZIE SKURNICK BOOKS, an imprint of Ig Publishing, has suspended acquisition and frontlist publication of YA fiction due to “very disappointing” sales, according to editor-in-chief Robert Lasner. Lizzie Skurnick Books launched in 2013 with reissues of YA classics, mostly from the1970’s and 1980’s. Lizzie Skurnick, a freelance journalist and author of Shelf Discovery: The Teen Classics We Never Stopped Reading (2009), operated her eponymous imprint with gusto, passionate about reintroducing much loved books to adult women who had first read those books as teenagers decades ago. When sales underperformed, Ig executives considered revamping the imprint to publish more new and original releases rather than reissues, but Skurnick objected to the proposed changes. (Publishers Weekly Children’s Bookshelf 9/29/16)RELISH MEDIA, an imprint of Little Pickle Press, is seeking YA fiction manuscripts. Little Pickle/Relish Media books convey meaningful messages that are thought-provoking, progressive, fresh, and they spark conversations about topics that matter most to MG and YA readers. Sample subjects of interest include the power of kindness, daring to be different, and the danger of racism. For a complete list of topics and submission information, visit the website: http://www.littlepicklepress.com/resources/submitting-manuscript/ (Children’s Book Insider – August 2016 and LittlePicklePress.com)ONSTAGE PUBLISHING based in Madison, Alabama, is open to submissions of chapter books, middle grade novels, and young adult novels. No picture books, short stories, or poetry. Also accepting nonfiction for 3rd grade and up, but query first to make sure project is a good fit. Art submissions always welcome. See website for detailed submission guidelines, as well as a backlist of titles which include the MG novel Dear Jack by Tammi Sauer, and the YA novel Fat Tuesday by Susan Vaught. (Children’s Writer eNews 10/6/16 and OnStagePublishing.com)Disney-Hyperion is launching RICK RIORDAN PRESENTS, an imprint devoted to publishing mythology-based books for middle graders. Riordan’s editor, Stephanie Owens Lurie, will manage the new pub, which will launch in 2018 with two books. Riordan will not write for his eponymous imprint, but he will have a significant role in acquiring manuscripts, preferably from new, emerging, and underrepresented authors. Riordan also plans to promote the books and authors via his extensive social media reach and his in-person appearances. “I can’t wait to get started on this new endeavor, finding and promoting other authors who write engaging middle grade fiction, supporting them in exploring the many fascinating mythologies of the world, and helping to broaden the spectrum of representation in publishing.” Submissions accepted from agented authors only. (PWC Bookshelf 9/22/16)SHADOW MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING, a fiction and nonfiction publisher “passionate about clean content and empowering values,” is seeking middle grade fantasy and age appropriate romance. Other genres accepted include children’s

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cont’d on pg.7

The Market PlaceCOMPILED AND EDITED BY RITA RUSSELL

“It can be stressful to be a little person, and children get anxious. They need help to understand that the world is not such a scary place and they’re not alone. And that’s what my books are about… People love you and they will help you.”Anna Dewdney – NY Times Bestselling Author and Illustrator

SELF-PUBLISHINGAre you contemplating entering the world of self publishing? Before making your move, take a page out of the book of Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo, co-founders of TIMBUKTU LABS and creators of Timbuktu Magazine, the first iPad magazine for children. In May, the creative duo set a crowdfunding record for Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, their children’s book aimed at 5- to 8-year-olds. So far, the project has generated well over $1 million in pre-orders from more than 20,000 enthusiastic backers through Kickstarter and Indigogo campaigns. It now holds the record for the most funded new book in crowdfunding history – pretty astounding considering the initial funding goal was only $40,000 to print 1,000 books. In November, Rebel Girls will debut with an initial print order of 60,000 hardcover books! Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls contains 100 fairytale-like stories about famous women in history, from England’s Queen Elizabeth I to American professional tennis player Serena Williams. Illustrations by 100 different female artists from around the world accompany each story. In an interview with Publishers Weekly, Elena Favilli reflected on the amazing success of her venture: “When we launched in April, we had been working on every aspect of the campaign for the past eight months. [But] even for us it’s like rowing into something much bigger than we thought.” So what’s the secret of their success? Smart strategic planning, says Favilli. She notes the book’s title, Rebel Girls, was an attention grabber, and that she and her partner Cavallo worked tirelessly to build interest among the thousands of readers of their Timbuktu newsletter. (Publishers Weekly Children’s Bookshelf 9/15/16 and Indiegogo.com)

“To construct a truly American imagination, children’s book creators must accept the responsibility of planting seeds of diversity and equity. Of empathy and unity. Book publishers must provide the vast fields of hope for us to do our work. And librarians and teachers must continue to water them, nurture them, grow them.”

Kwame Alexander – 2015 Newbery Medalist

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cont’d on pg. 8

PUBLISHING PERSONNEL NEWS Susan Dobinick joined BLOOMSBURY CHILDREN’S BOOKS as Nonfiction Editor. She was most recently an associate editor at Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. (Publishers Weekly Children’s Job Moves 9/1/16)At CHRONICLE BOOKS, Naomi Kirsten and Melissa Manlove were both promoted from editor to Senior Children’s Books Editor. (Publishers Weekly Children’s Bookshelf 10/4/16)Christian Trimmer is the new Editorial Director of HENRY HOLT BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS, having exited Simon & Schuster where he was executive editor. Laura Godwin, VP and Publisher of Holt BFYR, is stepping down from her position to launch her own imprint, Godwin Books, which will publish fiction and nonfiction for children of all ages. Both Trimmer and Godwin will report to Senior VP and Publishing Director Jean Feiwel. As a result of the reorganization, Executive Editor Sally Doherty and Editor Lauren Bisom are leaving the Macmillan imprint. (Publishers Weekly 10/11/16)RANDOM HOUSE CHILDREN’S BOOKS welcomes Regina Flath as Senior Designer. She held the same position at Simon & Schuster. Other editorial shifts at RHCB: • Erin Clarke was promoted to Senior Executive Editor and

Katherine Harrison was promoted to Editor at KNOPF. (PWC Job Moves 9/29/16)

• At CROWN BOOKS, Emily Easton is now VP and Publisher of Crown Books for Young Readers; she was formerly executive editor. Samantha Gentry was promoted to Assistant Editor. (PWC Job Moves 9/29/16)

• At DELACORTE PRESS, Wendy Loggia and Krista Marino were both promoted to Senior Executive Editor. Monica Jean is the new Assistant Editor, moving up from editorial assistant. (PWC Bookshelf 10/6/16)

Jessica Almon has been promoted to Executive Editor at RAZORBILL, Penguin’s MG and YA imprint. (PWC Bookshelf 10/6/16)At ROARING BROOK PRESS, Elizabeth Clark has been promoted to Art Director from associate art director. Andrew Arnold moves up to Associate Art Director from senior designer. (PWC Job Moves 9/1/16)At SIMON PULSE, Sarah McCabe was promoted to Assistant Editor, and Sarah Creech has joined as Senior Designer, coming from HarperCollins. (PWC Job Moves 9/1/16 and 9/29/16)Becky Herrick is now an Editor at SKY PONY PRESS, coming from Scholastic where she held that same position. (PWC Job Moves 9/29/16)Promotions at TOR TEEN: Whitney Ross is now Senior Editor, and Amy Stapp is Editor. (PWC Job Moves 9/1/16)

The Market Place cont’d from pg. 6

picture books, family and parenting, and self-help. Visit website to see backlist. Submit full manuscripts with query letter and 1-page synopsis through Submittable. Responds in 12 to 14 weeks. http://shadowmountain.com/submit-your-manuscript/ (Children’s Writer eNews 9/15/16 and ShadowMountain.com)SPORK, the children’s book division of Texas-based Clear Fork Publishing, is open to unagented picture book submissions. Prefer manuscripts that both entertain and expand readers’ minds. Submit an author query letter and/or illustrator on-line portfolio address, using the website submission form. (Children’s Writer eNews 9/8/16 and ClearForkPublishing.com)Tiger Tales, a Connecticut-based publisher of picture and novelty books, is making the turn to middle-grade nonfiction with its newest imprint, 360 DEGREES. Three Sixty is dedicated to creating interactive, illustrated books that explore the world from multiple angles. Among its September debut titles: StoryWorlds: Nature, a wordless book which features a range of habitats, flora, and fauna. And Wilderness: An Interactive Atlas of Animals, which explores Earth’s diverse biomes through lift-the-flaps, movable wheels, and miniature books-within-the-book. Next spring’s offerings include The Earth Book, an overview of the planet that spans plants, animals, people, and cities; and Things That Grow and Animal Journeys, which launch a series of small-format hardcovers. (PWC Bookshelf 9/29/16)St. Martin’s Press, a division of Macmillan, is launching a new YA and adult imprint in fall 2017 called WEDNESDAY BOOKS. The new publisher will focus on “bold, diverse, and commercial voices in fiction and nonfiction who speak to readers looking for stories in and beyond the YA category.” Wednesday Books is expected to print between 10 and 20 new titles each year, and it will also be the home for all YA titles at St. Martin’s going forward. Sara Goodman, who edits Saint Martin’s authors like Rainbow Rowell and Courtney Summers, will serve as editorial director of Wednesday Books. (Publishers Weekly 10/12/16 and SCBWI’s Blueboard) WHITE MANE KIDS publishes historical fiction and nonfiction for middle grade and young adult readers. Open to submissions of compelling stories that captivate young readers’ interest and are infused with historical information that is fact-checked and accurate. Especially interested in Civil War related manuscripts. Complete submission guidelines on the publisher’s website. (Children’s Writer eNews 10/13/16 and Whitemane.com)

“The one thing that I learned, that I still hold onto every day as I work as an artist: It’s always going to be a process before progress. It takes work. It takes humility. It takes confidence. It takes agency and urgency. And it takes a little bit of luck sometimes, too.”

Jason Reynolds – YA and MG Author

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Renee Nyen has been promoted to Agent from associate agent, repping MG and YA authors only. Follow Renee on Twitter @Renee_Nyen. Visit the agency blog to see Hannah’s and Renee’s manuscript wish lists. (PWC Job Moves 9/1/16 and KTLiterary.com)MCINTOSH AND OTIS Junior Agent Shannon Powers is building her list with both adult and children’s titles. In YA and middle grade, she seeks “mysteries and thrillers with high emotional stakes, projects with romantic elements (whether fun or angsty), horror, light sci-fi or fantasy, and contemporary with a unique premise… Above all, she looks for projects with a strong hook, smart plotting, memorable characters, and an addictive voice.” Submit via email, following guidelines on the agency website. Follow Shannon on Twitter @S_E_Powers (KathyTemean.Wordpress.com 8/17/16 and McIntoshandOtis.com)Peter Knapp left New Leaf and returned to PARK LITERARY as an Agent, focusing on middle grade and young adult fiction. (PWC Job Moves 9/1/16 and PeteJKnapp.com)In September, Sara Crowe joined PIPPIN PROPERTIES as a Senior Agent, moving from Harvey Klinger, Inc., where she worked for 10 years. Her client list includes Megan Frazer Blakemore, Jeff Hirsch, and Varian Johnson. She is seeking to rep more diverse stories and authors. Her current wish list includes “contemporary realistic graphic novels that would appeal to fans of Roller Girl and Sisters, and a YA version of Where’d You Go Bernadette with mystery and heart and humor.” (PWC Job Moves 9/29/16 and SaraCrowe.com)Jess Dallow at BROWER LITERARY is looking for YA and adult, with a keen interest in romance, family stories, thrillers, mystery, and women’s fiction. Queries should include a query letter, synopsis, and first chapter pasted into the email. Submit to Jess@BrowerLiterary.com. (BrowerLiterary.com) At Fuse Literary, Sara Sciuto has exited as agent to start her own editorial and consulting company, SARA SCIUTO LITERARY SERVICES. Sara plans to offer children’s authors (picture books through YA) the same hands-on, expertise editorial assistance that she previously provided to her agency clients. Critiques will cover first 10 pages, full picture book text, or illustrated dummy. (SaraSciutoEditorial.com and Twitter @SaraSciuto)WERNICK & PRATT’s Emily Mitchell is seeking both authors and illustrators, from picture books to YA. “I have a soft spot for funny middle-grade fiction and chapter books (think Ramona, Clementine, Louis Sachar, e.g.). I like contemporary stories and historical stories, and I’m a sucker for good nonfiction. I’m not a great fan of high fantasy. I also have a pet peeve for extra-long books: in recent years we’ve seen an epidemic of 300-, 400-, 700-page books for young readers that don’t need to be that long. Precise and concise language is, to me, more impressive than a sprawling epic.” For more about Emily, read her agent Q & A at http://wernickpratt.com/agents/qa-with-emily-mitchell/ (KathyTemean.Wordpress.com 8/1/16 and WernickPratt.com)

The Market Place cont’d from pg. 7

“I still think the most important thing to do if you want to get an agent, to sell a book, is to write. A lot. Work on your craft. There are so many “other” things you can do – go to conferences, blog, join 12×12, Tweet, Tumbl, Foofinfarf (that’s a new one I just made up; it’ll be super hot by next week). Do those things if you can, but first, always, write.”

Julie Falatko – Children’s Book Author

AGENT NEWSAt BOOKENDS LITERARY, Agent Tracy Marchini is open to picture book, middle grade, and young adult manuscripts across most genres, except horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and true crime. “For picture book fiction, she’s particularly interested in manuscripts that are laugh out loud funny or deliciously dark. For middle grade and young adult, she’s interested in underdogs, strong female characters and/or unreliable narrators.” Tracy believes that readers of all backgrounds and ethnicities should be able to see themselves in the books they read, and she is committed to bringing diversity to her list. Follow her on Twitter @TracyMarchini. BookEnds agents strive to reply to all submissions and queries within 6 to 12 weeks. Status updates are regularly posted on Twitter and Facebook. (KathyTemean.Wordpress.com 9/29/16 and BookEndsLiterary.com)Ethan Ellenberg, owner of ETHAN ELLENBERG LITERARY, is actively looking to add new and established writers to his client list. He’s interested in all kinds of commercial fiction, including children’s. Notable clients include Caldecott winner Eric Rohmann. Visit website for submission details. Agency will respond within two weeks if interested. (KathyTemean.Wordpress.com 8/23/16 and EthanEllenberg.com)Associate Agent Kristy Hunter of THE KNIGHT AGENCY is accepting submissions from a wide variety of genres for young adult and middle grade readers. With strong roots in the south and New York City, Kristy gravitates towards stories set in those regions. She also enjoys books that feature horses, boarding schools, sisters, and sororities. Her favorites include I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson, Wonder by R.J. Palacio, and Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Parker. See submission guidelines on agency website. Follow Kristy on Twitter @KristySHunter. (KathyTemean.Wordpress.com 8/10/16 and KnightAgency.net)KT LITERARY welcomes Hannah Fergesen as an Agent; she was formerly an assistant at Trident Media. Fergesen is building her list with stories “with strong visuals and sharp dialogue, whether presented in edgy speculative or contemporary YA and MG fiction, or dark and lyrical speculative adult fiction.” Follow Hannah on Twitter @HannahFergesen. Also at KT Lit,

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“You have to resign yourself to the fact that you waste a lot of trees before you write anything you really like, and that’s just the way it is. It’s like learning an instrument, you’ve got to be prepared for hitting wrong notes occasionally, or quite a lot, cause I wrote an awful lot before I wrote anything I was really happy with.”

J. K. Rowling – #1 NY Times Bestselling Author

WRITING RESOURCESTHE BUSINESS OF BOOK SALES: WILL YOU MAKE MONEY? If you approach writing as a job – even if you’re not getting paid for it yet – then you’ll want to be informed about the ins and outs of the business of writing. ElectricLiterature.com offers a terrific article that breaks down exactly how book selling works, how the dollars and cents of it all add up. Learn all about advances (and why not earning out doesn’t mean your book “failed”), what sales numbers mean, and where the money goes when a book sells. Arm yourself with valuable knowledge that every newly published or aspiring author should possess. https://electricliterature.com/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-book-sales-but-were-afraid-to-ask-1fe6bc00aa2d#.ev0g7niov (Children’s Writer eNews 7/21/16)ICL PODCASTS: YOUR GUIDE TO WRITING FOR KIDS – Looking for instruction on how to write great books or magazine articles for children? Tune in to The Instititute of Children’s Literature’s FREE podcasts, published every Friday on iTunes and Stitcher. ICL director Katie Davis hosts each week’s episode, which focuses on the craft and business of writing for children. Davis and her expert ICL guests will answer listener questions and share hard-to-find resources, tips, and links that will assist you on your kidlit writing journey. https://www.instituteforwriters.com/podcast/ (Children’s Writer eNews 8/24/16)DEAREDITOR.COM: Q & A ON THE ROAD TO PUBLICATION – This terrific writer’s advice website answers questions that trouble many kidlit writers, such as which swear words are allowed in YA lit or when is the best time of year to submit materials. Deborah Halverson, author of Writing Young Adult Fiction for Dummies, and her professional guest editors offer advice that is honest, insightful, and up to date about the world of children’s publishing. Use the “Categories” tab at the top of the page to find answers to archived questions, or click on the “Write to the Editor” tab to ask a new question of your own. http://deareditor.com/ (Children’s Writer eNews 7/28/16)THE PURDUE ONLINE WRITING LAB: THE FINER POINTS OF WRITING – Packed with over 200 FREE resources for writers to help with common problems like grammar, sources, avoiding plagiarism, and outlining. A one stop shop for all the things we learned or should have learned

in school about writing. http://owl.english.purdue.edu/ (Children’s Writer eNews 8/4/16)YA AUTHORS ON NPR: ADVICE ON GROWING UP – Want to get to know your favorite young adult writers a little better? Listen to their real life stories of growing up and growing into themselves in an NPR series called “Next Chapter.” Jacqueline Woodson, Sandra Cisneros, and Jason Reynolds are among the featured authors who tell what their lives were like as young adults and reflect on the journey they took when they first left home and stepped (or leaped) into the unknown adult world. Listen to their riveting stories of challenges, disappointments, and triumphs. http://www.npr.org/series/492269333/the-next-chapter (PWC Bookshelf 9/15/16)CALDECOTT WINNER CHRISTIAN ROBINSON ON PBS – Christian Robinson was not a book lover as a kid, but he loved drawing pictures that reflected the stories in his head. Today, his childhood hobby has morphed into an award-winning career as an illustrator who relishes creating picture book images that speak to all children and “reflect the diverse world that we live in.” Tune in to the PBS Newshour series “Brief But Spectacular” to hear Christian Robinsons explain why illustration is a powerful medium for children: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/illustrator-explains-art-making-pictures-speak-children/ (PWC Bookshelf 9/15/16)

“Writing is in the eye of the editor. What one editor thinks is poison another editor will love. You have to have confidence in your own work.” Dee Stewart – Author

MAGAZINE MARKETSPOCKETS magazine has posted its 2017 themes list on its website. Among the subjects: healthy bodies, school, and heroes. Pockets also publishes Thanksgiving and Christmas-themed stories in its November and December issues. Designed for 6- to 12-year-olds, Pockets magazine offers wholesome stories that exemplify God’s love and presence in life. Content includes fiction, scripture stories, puzzles and games, poems, recipes, colorful pictures, activities, and scripture readings. Submissions via postal mail only. http://pockets.upperroom.org/write-for-us/themes/?inf_contact_key=42bec3a7e7891a2aff4230e738436f64707fd34e672af6a99f600707788e9ad0 (Children’s Writer eNews 8/11/16)

“Writing is not easy. You are walking in footsteps of so many great writers and also great souls! Do not be discouraged! Press on! Don’t give up! Write, write, write.”

Tricia Lawrence – Agent, Erin Murphy Literary

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CONTESTSTIPS FOR WINNING A WRITING CONTEST Ever wonder what it takes to win a writing contest? Author, writing instructor, and frequent contest judge Jan Fields shares four important steps you can take to improve your chances in competitions: 1. Don’t enter something that doesn’t fit the contest. 2. Do Read your entry out loud. 3. Don’t get so freaked out by small stuff like format that you

don’t enter. 4. The most important elements of any entry are the title, the

opening lines, and the endingRead more on Jan’s blog post: http://bit.ly/2eEu2FS (Children’s Writer eNews 9/22/16)2016 TU BOOKS NEW VISIONS AWARD TU BOOKS is the middle grade and young adult imprint of award-winning publisher Lee & Low Books. Lee & Low is committed to expanding the kidlit canvas to include more writers of color. As such, the New Visions Award competition is open only to minority writers of MG and YA manuscripts, who have not had a MG or YA novel published. “Manuscripts should address the needs of children and teens of color by providing stories with which they can identify and relate, and which promote a greater understanding of one another. Themes relating to LGBTQ+ topics or disabilities may also be included.” Award winner will receive $1,000 and a Lee & Low publishing contract. Second place Honor Award winner will receive $500. Complete submission details on the Lee & Low website, https://www.leeandlow.com/writers-illustrators/new-visions-award Submission Deadline: October 31, 2016.PITCHMAS BLOG PITCH PARTYWho doesn’t need help avoiding the slush pile? The PitchMAS Blog Pitch Party offers one way around it. To participate, send your 35-word pitch to pitchMAS@gmail.com during the submission window. The top 50 pitches, as chosen by the PitchMAS hosts, will be placed on the PitchMAS blog for agents and editors to comment on and make requests. The list of participating agents and editors will be announced in November. For more information on the pitch fest, visit http://pitchmas.blogspot.com/ Submission Window: November 11-12, 2016.ICONIC HOLIDAY HEN CONTESTHEN&INK LITERARY STUDIO is calling on illustratorsto submit an Iconic Holiday Hen illustration. The winning illustration will be used as the Hen & Ink Holiday Mascot, spreading holiday cheer throughout the kidlit publishing universe. The winning illustrator will be invited to submit a portfolio or project to Hen&Ink for consideration. Contest details at http://www.henandink.com/deadline-for-your-iconic-holiday-hen-submissions-is-november-12-15-2016/ Submission Dates: November 12-15, 2016.

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TOMIE DEPAOLA AWARDSCBWI member illustrators are eligible to enter this competition that is judged by legendary artist Tomie DePaola. What to draw? Consider this year’s artistic challenge: “Cast yourself, as a child, in a picture book. Show your autobiographical character in a scene and make sure to convey the emotion of your character. The viewer should be able to read the emotion of the character immediately and clearly. No words or captions are allowed in the image.” Contest winner will receive an expenses paid trip to the SCBWI New York Winter Conference in 2017, covering tuition, travel, and hotel costs. The winning piece will also be displayed during the New York VIP Party and Portfolio Showcase. Further details on the SCBWI website: http://www.scbwi.org/awards/tomie-depaola-award/ Submission Deadline: December 1, 2016.LITTLE, BROWN EMERGING ARTIST AWARDOpen to Unagented Artists Only. Are you an unpublished artist with a great picture book idea? Little, Brown is seeking to expand the canvas of diversity in picture book art with its Emerging Artist competition. The contest mission is “to encourage the development of high-quality children’s picture books that resonate with readers of diverse backgrounds and experiences, that in some manner draw from the rich cultural experiences of this country—whether they manifest in character, theme, setting, plot, or are derived simply from the artist’s own experience of identity.” The winning artist will receive an in-person portfolio review by the LBYR publishing staff, and the winning submission will be considered for publication. See complete contest rules at http://lbartistaward.squarespace.com/official-rules Submission Deadline: Jan. 15, 2017. SCHOLASTIC GRAPHIX CONTEST Open to Graphic Novel Author/Illustrators Only. Scholastic’s Graphix imprint is looking to expand its ranks with 5 unpublished graphix novelists. Since launching in 2005, Graphix has become the publishing home of some of the top comics creators and graphic novelists working today, including Dav Pilkey and Raina Telgemeier. Graphix champions creator-driven projects that combine exceptional art with strong storytelling for realistic fiction, memoir, fantasy and more for children and teens. Contest winners will receive an offer to publish with a $15,000 advance. Submission Deadline: April 1, 2017. (Children’s Writer eNews 9/1/16 and Scholastic.com/GraphixContest)TWITTER PITCH COMPETITIONSOpportunities abound for you to participate in writing and illustrating contests, especially on Twitter. Twitter pitch contests are a fun, low-pressure way to connect with editors and agents and find out what kind of work they’re interested in, whether it’s yours or someone else. If you’ve never created a twitter pitch or you’re not sure how to these contests work, read all about it here: https://subitclub.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/how-to-pitmad/ Boldly go into the Twitterverse. Get ready! Get set! Pitch! (SubItClub.Wordpress.com 9/30/16)

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RITA D. RUSSELLRita D. Russell joined SCBWI in 2009, after hearing Anna Dewdney sing its praises. When not writing picture books and chap-ter books, the former journalist and televi-sion script writer teaches screenwriting at St. Louis Community College.

About MO ScribblesMissouri Regional AdvisorKim Piddington, kap@cebridge.net

EditorSue Bradford Edwards, suebradfordedwards@yahoo.com

Art DirectorLynn Alpert, lynn@lynnalpert.com

CopyrightContributors retain copyright to their work. Reuse material only with permission.

MO Scribbles is the quarterly newsletter of the Missouri and Arkansas Regions of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the international organization for professionals in children’s publishing. Find out more by con-tacting the SCBWI (8271 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048) or visiting:SCBWI, scbwi.org • Missouri, missouri.scbwi.org • Arkansas, arkansas.scbwi.org

#PBPitch – Picture Books Only. Use the #PBPitch hashtag to pitch to agents via Twitter from 8am to 8pm EST. Pitch up to 3 manuscripts 2x each maximum. Pitch each once before 2pm and once after (3 manuscripts x 2 pitches each.) Illustrators are welcome to add an accompanying piece of art to their pitch. For more details, visit http://www.pbpitch.com/ Contest: October 27, 2016.#PitchCB – Historical Fiction Only. Pitch your manuscript to agents at Curtis Brown and Conville & Walsh via Twitter using the #PitchCB hashtag. Pitch only once in the 24 hour period. For more details, visit https://www.curtisbrown.co.uk/page/pitchcb Contest: October 28, 2016.#KidPit – Pitch your children’s manuscript using the #KidPit hashtag. Open to all kidlit categories: board books, picture books, easy reader/chapter books, middle grade, and young adult, fiction and nonfiction. Complete manuscripts only. Contest details at https://heidinorrod.wordpress.com/kidpit/ Contest: November 9, 2016.#AdPit – Pitch your adult and new adult completed manuscripts, fiction and nonfiction, using the #Adpit hashtag. Details at https://heidinorrod.wordpress.com/adpit-and-kidpit/ Contest: November 16, 2016. #ArtPit – Author/illustrators, illustrators, artists, and graphic novelists are invited to pitch a story and an attached picture showing off your work. For contest details, search #ArtPit on Twitter. Contest: November 30, 2016.#PitMad – Open to all genres. Pitch your completed, polished, and unpublished manuscript via Twitter using the #Pitmad hashtag between 8am and 8pm EDT. Pitch limit: Only three tweets per project for the day. http://www.brenda-drake.com/pitmad/ Contest: December 1, 2016.#PitchMas – Pitch your work using the #PitchMAS hashtag between 6am and 6pm EST. No more than two pitches per hour. For a list of participating agents and contest details, visit http://pitchmas.blogspot.com/ Contest: December 16, 2016.

#SFFPit – Only for works of fantasy or science fiction. All age categories – PB, MG, YA, NA, and adult – are welcome. Pitch your completed manuscript using the #SFFPit hashtag between 8am and 6pm EST. Pitch up to 10 times in total. For contest guidelines, visit http://dankoboldt.com/sffpit/ Contest: December 2016. Exact date to be announced.#Pit2Pub – Open to all categories and age groups, including children. Pitch your manuscript using the #Pit2Pub hashtag. More info on Twitter and at http://www.kristinvanrisseghem.com/pit2pub/reminder-pit2pub-official-rules-and-hashtags-pit2pub Contest: January 18, 2017.

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